Handmade, homegrown, and heart-filled. Your country escape awaits.
Just a 40-minute drive through rolling countryside from Canberra, the village of Bungendore invites you to slow down and savour the good things in life. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the hospitality is warm, and the community is built on a foundation of creativity and a deep connection to the land. Whether you’re a day tripper chasing long lunches and boutique finds, or a weekend wanderer escaping the city for fresh country air, you’ll find a place that feels like home.
Start your day meandering through charming streets, discovering galleries filled with works by talented local artists and makers. Explore institutions like Bungendore Leather & Trading Co or find earthy calm in consciously sourced homewares at Sage Natural Living.
The region’s flavour is a story in itself, from paddock-to-plate dining at cafes and restaurants to the cool-climate wines at Sapling Yard’s cellar door. On Saturdays, the Southern Harvest Farmers Market is the village’s foodie heart, showcasing the very best zero-waste produce from local growers. For a truly unique experience, join a seasonal truffle hunt and unearth your own hidden treasure.
Here, connection is real. You’ll find yourself chatting with locals at a classic country pub, sharing stories with artists in their studios, and leaving with a full basket and an even fuller heart. This is more than a visit; it’s a chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect.
For generations, the country around Bungendore was home to the Ngunnawal and Ngarigo Peoples, who nurtured a deep connection to the land and its stories.
A new chapter in the area’s history began in the 1820s with the arrival of European settlers. By 1837, the village of Bungendore was formally established, and grew into a vital crossroads for those travelling between Goulburn, Braidwood, Queanbeyan, and Cooma.
This long history of connection and travel laid the foundations for Bungendore. The town’s spirit has blossomed into a haven for creative souls.
Fine art galleries and cafes have flourished, creating the rich, heart-filled village you see today. The town’s main drawcards are its incredible makers, artisans, and paddock-to-plate experiences, which continue to build on a long legacy of talent, taste, and tradition.
As your day of discovery unfolds, allow yourself to get lost in the village’s charming nooks. Spend time rummaging for the retro jacket of your dreams at Phil’s Emporium, a treasure trove packed with character. Wander through The Malbon, a local creative precinct where you can find everything from antiques and florals to artisan makers. The experience here is one of thoughtful connection, a deep appreciation for the land and its stories, captured beautifully in the works of resident artists.
When evening falls, Bungendore’s heart beats in its cosy corners. Settle in for a fireside feast at The George Bar & Dining, where bold, seasonal flavours are crafted with the very best local produce. For a truly local experience, the Royal Hotel offers the kind of small-town soul that makes you feel instantly welcome, with live music and spontaneous singalongs that capture the genuine joy of the village.
Make your weekend escape complete by checking into one of the beautiful accommodation options. Find restorative quiet at The Carrington Inn, a heritage hotel tucked among gardens with generous rooms and soft lighting. It’s the perfect space to pause, unwind, and breathe in the country calm. Leave Bungendore feeling lighter, full of good food, fresh air, and conversations that only happen when you’ve got nowhere else to be. Bungendore’s proximity to Canberra makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a quick day trip. Just a short drive from the nation’s capital, the charming town can also be reached via train from Canberra and Sydney.
Experience the best of both worlds in Bungendore – the convenience of city proximity and the allure of a genuine country lifestyle. A food lover’s paradise, the town’s markets and cafes boast an impressive array of local produce, and the Bungendore Wine Trail offers a scenic journey through the area’s expansive vineyards.
Plan your visit to Bungendore with the help of these pages: